International buyers to shape Spain’s property market in 2026

Spain’s property market delivered another strong performance in 2025 with over 71,000 homes sold to international buyers in H1, accounting for 20% of all transactions. As we begin 2026, overseas demand continues to drive the market, often commanding higher prices and sustained activity, even when local demand fluctuates.

As many foreign buyers begin their search early in the year, it’s essential for estate agents to remain visible during this key window, particularly as all signs point to another strong year ahead.

Resilient market, global appeal: What to expect in 2026

Market forecasts suggest that Spain’s property market will remain resilient in 2026, with demand holding near historic highs. Sales will stay close to 720,000 transactions, supported by limited supply and consistent interest; including a 20% share from overseas buyers.

Average property prices are also expected to rise, with an estimated nationwide increase of over 5%.

In 2025, average prices paid by foreigners also rose year-on-year across most regions, with the sharpest increases seen in Madrid (+17.1%), La Rioja (+16.3%), the Canary Islands (+14.1%), Murcia (+12.2%) and Catalonia (+10.9%). This upward trend is expected to continue in 2026.

Top nationalities buying in Spain

Drawing on trends from the same period last year, well-established international buyer groups are set to keep playing a leading role in Spain’s property market this year.

• The British continued to lead in Q1 2025, accounting for 8.2% of total overseas purchases.
• They were followed by German buyers at 6.4%, with the Dutch close behind at 6%.
• French buyers made up 5.3% of international transactions.
• Italian, Romanian and Belgian purchasers also featured prominently, each representing between 4.8% and 4.9% of total foreign demand.

EU nationals account for over 50% of all foreign transactions, with a further 20% from the rest of Europe. For agents, this means access to a high-value international audience who benefit from simpler bureaucratic processes, resulting in faster sales.

Where overseas demand is strongest

These are the leading provinces where estate agents can expect strong international demand:

• Alicante leads, with 35% of all Q1 property sales last year going to non‑resident foreign buyers, particularly popular with British, Dutch and Belgian nationals.
• Málaga ranks second with 28.4% of sales to non‑residents, driven by consistent demand across the Costa del Sol.
• Balearic Islands (24.8%), Santa Cruz de Tenerife (21.8%), Las Palmas (15.6%) and Murcia (15.4%) also show strong international interest.

Why the start of the year is key for international visibility

Many foreigners start their buying cycles early in the year by researching properties online and planning upcoming investments.

At thinkSPAIN, we see this reflected in our data every year: enquiries surge by as much as 80% between December and Q1. For estate agents, this seasonal lift marks a crucial window to stay visible and reach serious, high-value international buyers.

Make the most of this peak international demand on thinkSPAIN

Our platform automatically translates your listings into 12 languages. Comprehensive filters, personalised searches and email alerts keep buyers updated on properties matching their preferences. Our one-of-a-kind Find Your Place feature filters listings by lifestyle and location, helping our millions of monthly overseas visitors find their perfect place in Spain.